Benha University has launched its third graduation project marathon, an initiative designed to convert academic work into commercially viable startups. The competition, running under the banner “From Graduation Project… To Startup,” aims to build a direct pipeline from the classroom to Egypt’s tech ecosystem.
Quick Facts
- Initiative: Third Graduation Project Marathon 2026.
- Goal: Convert student projects into viable startups.
- Prize Pool: EGP 240,000 for top projects.
From MVP to Market
The university’s leadership emphasized that the marathon’s core objective is to move student ideas beyond theoretical concepts into minimum viable products (MVPs). Dr. Nasser El-Gizawy, President of the University, stated that the program aims to build startups that can contribute to the national economy and address key development challenges, particularly in energy, water, food, and climate.
The initiative aligns with Egypt’s broader goals, including the National Strategy for Higher Education and Scientific Research 2030 and the “Be Prepared” initiative, which seeks to qualify one million innovators. Applications are now open for all final-year students across the university’s various faculties.
Targeting Key Sectors for Growth
The competition is structured around several strategic tracks designed to spur innovation in critical industries. According to Dr. El-Gizawy, these include sustainable energy, water and natural resources, agriculture and food security, and climate and the green economy.
Other focus areas are smart technology and digital transformation, health innovation and biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, and the creative economy. Dr. Gehan Abdel-Hady, Vice President for Postgraduate Studies and Research, noted that this multi-disciplinary approach fosters collaboration between different specializations and connects academic research with real-world market needs.
EGP 240,000 in Prizes and How to Compete
A total prize fund of EGP 240,000 is available for the winning teams. Dr. Ayman Samir, Advisor to the University President for Innovation, outlined that the prize money is divided across the marathon’s core tracks, with each track offering EGP 30,000. This amount will be split among the top three teams, with EGP 12,000 for first place, EGP 10,000 for second, and EGP 8,000 for third.
To be eligible, teams must consist of three to five students, and their project must be an officially approved graduation project supervised by a faculty member. A critical requirement is the submission of a functional prototype or MVP that demonstrates the project’s practical application.
Projects will be evaluated based on their level of innovation, potential social and environmental impact, commercial viability, and the quality of the team’s presentation.
About Benha University
Benha University is a major public university located in Benha, the capital of the Qalyubia Governorate in Egypt. Established as an independent university in 2005, it has grown to include numerous faculties offering a wide range of academic programs. The university is committed to advancing scientific research and community development, playing a significant role in Egypt’s higher education landscape.
Source: Masrawy
